Kia Carnival I (UP/GQ, facelift 2001) 2.9 CRDI (144 Hp)


Overall Rating

6 / 10
Safety 2.0 / 5
Engine 2.8 / 5
Value 4.0 / 5
Performance 2.8 / 5
Comfort 3.5 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

Kia Carnival:

The Kia Carnival is a minivan manufactured by the Korean automaker Kia since 1998. It is marketed globally under various nameplates, prominently as the Kia Sedona.
The first-generation Carnival was introduced in January 1998, and was marketed in a single, short wheelbase version. Second-generation models were marketed in short and long wheelbase variants. A rebadged variant of the second generation was offered in North America as the Hyundai Entourage. Beginning in 2010, the second-generation model received updated equipment, including Kia's corporate Tiger Nose grille, as introduced by its then new design chief, Peter Schreyer. Kia introduced its third-generation minivan in 2014, solely in a long wheelbase format. The fourth generation was introduced in 2020, when Kia also began using the Carnival nameplate worldwide....(Read more on Wikipedia)

I (UP/GQ, facelift 2001) Overview:

Kia Carnival (I (UP/GQ, facelift 2001)). With 310 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It has moderate fuel consumption (~11 l/100km). At around 2078 kg, it’s on the heavier side. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. A spacious vehicle designed to transport passengers comfortably, often with sliding doors. With seating for 7, it’s perfect for larger families.

2.9 CRDI (144 Hp) Verdict:

Rating 4 stars

Performance Verdict

A significant improvement over the TD, offering better power delivery and refinement for a more confident and quieter drive.

Fuel Economy

Good fuel efficiency (8.2 l/100 km) for its size and power, making it a cost-effective choice for families.

Best Use Case: Ideal for mixed driving, offering a balance of power and economy for family use and longer journeys.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Spacious and versatile interior for families
  • • Good value for money compared to European rivals
  • • Practicality with 7 seats and ample cargo space
  • • Improved CRDI diesel engine offers decent economy and power

Cons:

  • • Dated safety rating (2-star Euro NCAP)
  • • High fuel consumption for petrol V6 engines
  • • Older TD diesel can be unrefined and noisy
  • • Handling is not dynamic, typical for a large minivan

Specifications:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(I (UP/GQ, facelift 2001): 2001 - 2006).

General:
Brand:Kia
Model:Carnival
Generation:I (UP/GQ, facelift 2001)
Modification (Engine):2.9 CRDI (144 Hp)
Start of production:2002
End of production:2006
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Minivan
Seats:7
Doors:5
Engine:
Power:144 Hp @ 3800 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:49.6 Hp/l [Same length.]
Torque:310 Nm @ 2000 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:J3 More details about the engine J3
Engine displacement:2902
Number of cylinders:4
Engine configuration:Inline
Number of valves per cylinder:4
Fuel injection system:Diesel Commonrail
Engine aspiration:Turbocharger, Intercooler
Valvetrain:DOHC
Engine oil capacity:6.2 l
Coolant:9.4 l
Engine layout:Front, Transverse
Cylinder Bore:97.1 mm mm
Piston Stroke:98 mm mm
Compression ratio:19.3:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Diesel
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:11 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:6.6 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:8.2 l/100 km
Weight-to-power ratio:14.4 kg/Hp, 69.3 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:6.7 kg/Nm, 149.2 Nm/tonne
Space:
Kerb Weight:2078
Max. weight:2665
Max load:587
Fuel tank capacity:75 l
Size:
Length:4925 mm mm [Same length.]
Width:1900 mm mm [Same width.]
Height:1735 mm mm [Same height.]
Wheelbase:2905 mm mm [Same wheelbase.]
Front track:1625 mm
Rear (Back) track:1600 mm
Minimum turning circle (turning diameter):13 m [above average]
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelFront wheel drive
Number of gears5
Transmission typeManual
Front brakesVentilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesDrum [bad for performance and cooling.]
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringHydraulic Steering
Tires size215/65 R15
Wheel rims size15
Front suspensionCoil spring
Rear suspensionCoil spring

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